Sulphur Cap Transition Is No 'Walk in the Park' -BIMCO

Photo: IMO

BIMCO, the world’s largest international shipping association, has responded to the decision at the International Maritime Organization’s Marine (IMO) Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) on the implementation of the global sulphur cap for shipping.

Lars Robert Pedersen, Deputy Secretary General at BIMCO gave the following statement: “BIMCO respects the decision of the MEPC to move ahead and implement the global sulphur cap by January 1, 2020. We also noted the concerns raised by a number of IMO member states about availability of fuel oil in some regions of the world and the ability of their refineries to respond adequately.”

“BIMCO recognizes that the global sulphur cap implementation is about transition and would have been equally challenging either in 2020 or 2025. The transitional issues have been highlighted and we continue to hold the view that this will not be a ‘walk in the park’. The decision by the MEPC does not change this view.”

“BIMCO is appreciative of the further decision by the MEPC to recognize the need for effective implementation as suggested by a number of IMO member states and industry organizations including BIMCO. The years leading up to 2020 must now be used effectively to alleviate the consequences of the unprecedented disruptive change in supply of marine fuels by January 1, 2020 and ensure a continued level playing field in the industry.”